Bio

I made the decision to become a doctor when I was in high school in Austin, Texas, after watching my dad, who was a physician. From him, I learned that being a physician was not an occupation but a calling. I always admired my father for being an advocate for his patients. I learned that the doctor-patient relationship is special and is based upon tremendous responsibility and trust. These are the qualities that guided me to become a doctor. 

I earned my undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and my medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine.

I decided to specialize in gastroenterology while doing research. During the initial part of my career, I was recognized for my work with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). I was the first to recognize that fructose sugar caused symptoms similar to IBS. This discovery caused quite a stir at the time, although it has now become common knowledge. I co-wrote a chapter in Conn’s Therapeutic Manual years ago updating this information.

Prior to joining The Portland Clinic, I was the chief of gastroenterology at the Skagit Regional Clinic in Mt. Vernon, Wash. I joined The Portland Clinic so that I could live in a city like no other with my wife, two daughters, and my “best friend” Toto, a 20-pound black poodle.